Heart Rate Variations After Meals: Insights on Mitral Valve Prolapse

Heart Rate Monitoring

I apologize for bothering you again, but I have a follow-up question regarding my pulse.
Thank you for your previous response; it reassured me a lot.
However, I have noticed something new: after eating, while sitting and resting, my heart rate is around 82-85 beats per minute, but when I walk around after a meal, it increases to 110-125 beats per minute.
Could this situation be influenced by my mitral valve prolapse? I used to engage in extreme sports, and at 25 years old, I was surprised to suddenly experience palpitations.
After an examination, I found out that I have mild mitral valve prolapse.
I mainly want to ask you about my heart rate.
I haven't exercised in a while.
Thank you very much.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/18

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, mild mitral valve prolapse is not a big deal, so don't worry.
It's normal for your heart rate to increase after a period of inactivity when you start exercising again.
As long as you check your pulse and there are no arrhythmias, it's not necessarily related to the mitral valve prolapse.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/06/18

More Info

Understanding heart rate variations after meals, especially in the context of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), can be quite complex. Your observations regarding your heart rate increasing significantly after meals, particularly when you engage in physical activity, are not uncommon and can be influenced by several factors, including MVP.

Mitral valve prolapse is a condition where the valve between the heart's left atrium and left ventricle does not close properly, which can lead to various symptoms, including palpitations, especially during periods of increased physical activity or stress. In your case, the heart rate increase from 82-85 beats per minute (bpm) while resting to 110-125 bpm during walking is indicative of your body's response to physical exertion. This response is generally normal; however, it can be more pronounced in individuals with MVP due to the heart's altered mechanics.

After eating, the body directs more blood to the digestive system to aid in digestion, which can lead to a temporary increase in heart rate. This phenomenon is known as postprandial tachycardia. When you combine this with physical activity, your heart has to work harder to supply oxygen to both the digestive system and your muscles, which can further elevate your heart rate.
In individuals with MVP, the heart may already be under some strain due to the valve's improper closure, which can exacerbate feelings of palpitations or increased heart rate during these times. Additionally, anxiety or stress, which you mentioned experiencing, can also lead to increased heart rates and palpitations.
It's important to note that while MVP is often benign, it can sometimes be associated with arrhythmias or other cardiac symptoms. Given your history of extreme sports and the sudden onset of heart palpitations, it would be prudent to continue monitoring your symptoms and maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, such as an echocardiogram or Holter monitor, to assess the severity of your MVP and its impact on your heart function.

In summary, your increased heart rate after meals and during physical activity could be related to your mild mitral valve prolapse, combined with the body's normal physiological response to digestion and exercise. However, it is essential to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that your heart health is adequately monitored and managed. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques can also help in maintaining overall cardiovascular health. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as chest pain, severe palpitations, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention promptly.

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